Mixing a Boxed Cake Mix: Tips for Making it Without a Mixer

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores various methods for mixing a boxed cake mix without using an electric mixer, particularly in the context of cooking demonstrations. Participants share their personal experiences and tips for achieving good results through hand mixing and alternative tools.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions using a stainless whisk for mixing cake batter.
  • Another participant shares their experience of mixing cakes with a whisk or a mix n scraper, noting that they have never encountered issues without a standing mixer.
  • One user suggests sifting the cake mix before use to achieve a lighter texture.
  • Another participant describes a method of stirring the mix to eliminate lumps without using a sifter.
  • Several participants express a preference for hand mixing, with one stating they rarely use their Kitchen Aid mixer.
  • One participant highlights the effectiveness of the Mix N Masher for mixing cake batter.
  • Another participant mentions using the Mix N Masher for other tasks, such as mashing bananas.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that hand mixing can be effective for preparing boxed cake mixes, with no clear consensus on the necessity of using a mixer.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects personal experiences and preferences regarding mixing techniques in a home and demonstration setting, without implying any authoritative guidance.

Who May Find This Useful

This thread may be of interest to Pampered Chef consultants looking for alternative methods to mix cake batter during cooking demonstrations.

kam
kam
Staff member
Messages
3,655
Boy, I feel silly asking this....But I have always made cakes at home where I have a mixer and have NEVER thought about this:

My host tonight has chosen the Molten Choc cake in the Rice cooker (box of cake mix made to boxed directions and half a can of frosting scooped on top and put in the microwave).

The boxed cake mix directions state to mix the cake on such&such speed for x minutes, then such&such speed x minutes.

If you are making this at a show - do you just hand mix - and for how long?? Or do you use the host's mixer??? What effect does hand mixing have on the batter/cooking of the cake???

Any help would be appreciated!!!
 
I use our awesome stainless whisk.
 
I've mixed up cakes with the whisk lots of times, or even just the mix n scraper if I forgot the whisk... and I've NEVER had a problem. One host's husband was horrified that I wasn't using a standing mixer. =) But the cake always turns out just fine. I pretty much stopped using a mixer at home, too, if I have to make a cake - seems like it doesn't make much difference anyway.
 
Tip on the boxed caked: SIFT the cake mix before using it. It settles during shipping and this gives it a little lighter feeling when baked
 
at a show instead of a sifter do this...
dump mix in bowl use whisk to stir and get out lumps. then add all the ingredients and mix again with whisk. You will get fewer lumps!

ETA: I love my kitchen aid but do not think I have ever used a mixer with a "boxed" mix. I've never had a problem
 
Last edited:
  • Thread starter
  • #6
OK! Thanks all! The whisk it is!
 
What's a mixer?? Okay, I do own a Kitchen Aid (thanks Grandma for the great wedding gift) but I am so used to doing everything by hand that I don't hardly ever use it. Even before I got it, I just add the ingredients and stir until combined making sure it's all even.

Never heard of shifting it before, good tip.
 
wadesgirl said:
What's a mixer?? Okay, I do own a Kitchen Aid (thanks Grandma for the great wedding gift) but I am so used to doing everything by hand that I don't hardly ever use it. Even before I got it, I just add the ingredients and stir until combined making sure it's all even.

Never heard of shifting it before, good tip.
Click to expand...


Shifting hugh.... LOL .... Yeah I'm pickin on ya....
 
etteluap70PC said:
Shifting hugh.... LOL .... Yeah I'm pickin on ya....
Click to expand...

That's the funny part I am really good at spelling, my fingers just type faster than my brain!
 
The Mix N Masher is AWESOME for mixing a cake mix together.... I can't believe how great it works.
 
quiverfull7 said:
The Mix N Masher is AWESOME for mixing a cake mix together.... I can't believe how great it works.
Click to expand...

I am glad to have a use for it now. I've owned one for quite a while, but it's still brand new.
 
You can mash bananas for banana bread with it, too.
 
I use the mix-n-chop for the bananas, ground beef and potatoes.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #14
quiverfull7 said:
The Mix N Masher is AWESOME for mixing a cake mix together.... I can't believe how great it works.
Click to expand...

Whisk worked great tonight - cake turned out good too.

I JUST got the Mix N Masher with KE yesterday and now I know how I can use it. Thanks!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I mix a boxed cake mix by hand?

Yes, you can definitely mix a boxed cake mix by hand. Using a whisk or a sturdy spatula, you can combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients until fully incorporated. Just be sure to mix until there are no dry spots, but avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.

What tools do I need to mix a boxed cake mix without a mixer?

You will need a large mixing bowl, a whisk or a sturdy spatula, and a measuring cup for the wet ingredients. A rubber spatula can also be helpful for scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are well mixed.

How long should I mix the cake batter by hand?

When mixing by hand, aim for about 2-3 minutes of mixing. You want to ensure that all ingredients are well combined and that there are no dry patches of flour. However, be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser cake.

What if I have lumps in my cake batter?

It's normal to have a few small lumps in your cake batter, especially when mixing by hand. These will usually bake out during the cooking process. If the lumps are large, you can try to break them up with your spatula or whisk, but avoid overmixing.

Can I add extra ingredients to a boxed cake mix when mixing by hand?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit to enhance the flavor of your cake. Just fold them in gently after mixing the batter to avoid overmixing and ensure an even distribution throughout the cake.

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